Folding mobility scooters are great when you need to store them or put them into the car for transporting. When the scooter is fully folded you need it to go in the boot easily and if the heaviest part is too heavy to lift there are scooter lifts to do the job for you.

There are some important things to remember though when using a folding scooter.

Here are some of them:

• Remember: Anything you loosen to fold the scooter remember to tighten before using it. Always make sure the tiller is locked properly and secure. The tiller is your steering column and it is crucial that is both locked and secure.
• Ensure that if there is something either side of the scooter – for example, the arms – to always adjust them equally. You don’t want to find they are lopsided once you are using the scooter. This could be dangerous foir you, or damage the vehicle.
• Speaking of arms. These are generally designed for comfort, not helping you transfer into and out of the scooter. They often cannot take much weight, but always make sure the arm latches are locked after the scooter has been folded back up, before any weight is put on the arms.
• Before you use the scooter for real, practice folding it down to store it or putting it in the boot. You can take your time to make sure you know exactly how to fold down your scooter and will find the best and easiest way for you.
• Also it is important to identify any ‘pinch points’ your scooter may have. These are places that can easily trap your skin or clothes if you are not aware of them or do not handle your scooter correctly.
• Before you buy your scooter, make sure you (or your assistant) can lift the heaviest part of your scooter.
• Check the area where you are going to store your scooter. Is is suitable and big enough to easily place the scooter? Some compact scooters fold up very small and can be stored inside – even in a cupboard. Some foldable scooters can even be stored vertically – standing on their rear bumpers.